Significance of Vital essence
Vital essence in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations across different philosophies. It is seen as the life force that contributes to ritual effectiveness, the core meaning of existence, and divine intelligence permeating all beings. In Ayurveda, it is a critical component for health, derived from nutrient assimilation, and linked to emotional and physical well-being. Vedanta connects it to spiritual awareness, while Theravada emphasizes its role in spiritual nourishment. Additionally, it relates to natural vitality in Tibetan traditions and is recognized in science as Ojas, the essence supporting immunity and health.
Synonyms: Essential nature, Fundamental quality, Life force, Spirit, Soul, Life energy, Vital energy, Anima
In Dutch: Vitale essentie; In Finnish: Elinvoimainen olemus; In Spanish: Esencia vital; In German: Lebensessenz
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Vital essence'
In Buddhism, Vital essence signifies the spiritual nourishment derived from practicing Dhamma, which nurtures and sustains both the heart and mind, highlighting the importance of mindfulness and spiritual engagement in one's life.
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Spiritual nourishment that comes from engaging in the practices of Dhamma, which sustains the heart and mind.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Vital essence'
Vital essence in Hinduism embodies the life force that animates existence, connects the material to the spiritual, and is sustained through healthy practices, nutrition, and emotional well-being, serving as a bridge to understanding Brahman.
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The life force in the heart that diminishes due to excessive grief, anxiety, or malnourishment, leading to consumption.[2] (2) Described as a crucial body fluid associated with life and health, its loss is indicated as critical in terms of overall well-being and vitality.[3] (3) An essential energy that contributes to the overall health and strength of the body, impacted by both excess and lack of proper nutrition.[4] (4) An essential energy or life force within the body that is diminished in consumptive patients.[5] (5) The essential life force or energy that is believed to be depleted due to unhealthy practices, which vitalization aims to replenish.[6]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The core life force that permeates all beings and is synonymous with divine intelligence.[7] (2) The life force and consciousness that animate the physical body, conveyed through various senses.[8]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The intrinsic quality that breathes life into the individual, linking the material to the spiritual, and serves as a bridge to recognize the deeper truth of Brahman.[9]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The essential life force present in certain elements like the krimuka tree, contributing to the ritual's effectiveness.[10]
The concept of Vital essence in local and regional sources
Vital essence, in Tibetan traditions, encompasses five natural substances—mineral pitch, calcite, raw sugar, female yak butter, and honey—that collectively enhance and sustain vitality, reflecting a holistic approach to health and well-being.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) These are the five substances that provide natural vitality in Tibetan traditions, including mineral pitch, calcite, raw sugar, butter from a female yak, and honey.[11]